Stop Zapping Me!!

In response to recent buzz in the news about dental x-rays linked to brain tumors, here's my latest article published in the Japanese newspaper:

 I Don't Want To Take Anymore X-rays, Doc!

 

Recently there has been a lot of talk in the news about dental x-rays and the link to brain tumors. You’re probably saying, “A-ha! I knew it! There had to be something those dentists are not telling us! I don’t understand why they keep zapping us.”

While dental x-rays are often seen as somewhat of an annoyance to patients, it is very valuable in helping dentists detect and treat oral health problems at the earliest stages. I know, I know, the films are bulky and we have this big heavy apron on you but there is a reason for the torture.

So why exactly are we taking x-rays or what are we looking for? One of my patients said, “Why do I need x-rays? Can’t you just look around or poke around with that sharp pointy thing?” Many oral diseases cannot be detected only by a visual or physical exam alone. We are looking for cavities between your teeth, gum disease or more specifically bone loss, infections under the bone, or certain tumors. We don’t have Superman’s x-ray vision so these things cannot be seen with our eyes.

How often these dental x-rays should be taken depends on your oral health condition, age, risk factors and signs or symptoms you’re experiencing.  You should only get dental x-rays when necessary and only when they are necessary.

Nowadays, there are many ways to protect you from harmful radiation. The doses of radiation are lower today than it was 2 decades ago.

That big heavy apron that we put on you?  That’s a lead shield to protect the rest of your body. That hard thing we velcro around your neck? That’s a thyroid shield to protect your thyroid. Those bulky films?  Those are digital x-ray sensors. Digital x-rays require 80-90% less radiation than regular x-rays.

When your dentist takes x-rays, they should be read, reviewed and compared to your previous x-rays or conditions in your mouth along with the intraoral exam. Your dentist should also explain to you what they are looking for and what they’ve found afterwards.

With proper dental x-rays, your dentist can treat you in the best, most comprehensive, most conservative way possible. Most cavities, gum disease, infections or certain tumors won’t be detected by a patient until much later on.

In other words, “DON’T PANIC, DON’T STOP SEEING THE DENTIST”.

Have your dentist explain everything to you. They’ll be glad to!